ACTIVITY MONITORING PROGRAM VERSION 1.1 LIMITED RELEASE FOR PC MAGAZINE README FILE =============================== (c) 1994 HealthWare Limited ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ IF YOU HAVE DIFFICULTY READING THIS IN NOTEPAD THEN SELECT EDIT/WORDWRAP ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ Welcome to the Activity Monitoring Program from HealthWare Limited. This program represents a unique approach to improving the efficiency of computer users while reducing the risk of injury and helping to ensure compliance with the new Display Screen Equipment Regulations. Further information can be obtained by single-clicking on the AMP icon once the program is loaded and then selecting "Help on AMP". What is the Activity Monitoring Program? --------------------------------------- The Activity Monitoring Program is a proactive tool designed to ensure that your computer users take suitable breaks from using display screen equipment (Regulation 4 of the DSE Regulations). It achieves this by monitoring keyboard and mouse input and prompting the user to change their activity. The prompt times are proportional to the amount of work done on the computer so if a user takes natural breaks then the program will not activate. How Does it Help Computer Users? ------------------------------- All forms of human activity benefit from regular breaks. People that work with computers often report being unaware of the passage of time so they are particularly vulnerable to suffering from reduced efficiency after long work periods. AMP provides an objective measurement of the time that you spend using your machine and then reminds you to do something different. This will restore your working efficiency and thus help to improve both the quality and quantity of your work. ++++++++++++ Recent studies show that you should expect at least a 10% performance improvement from using a break system like that suggested by the Activity Monitoring Program. The program is currently the subject of an MSc in Occupational Psychology being carried out by Joanna Bawa, Usability Editor at PC Magazine ++++++++++++ What are the differences between the Limited Release and the Full Version? ------------------------------------------------------------------------- The limited release will only prompt you to take Micropauses (30 seconds after 10 Minutes.) You will not be able to change the timings for the micropause. The full version has three levels of prompt and the default times for these can be seen by single-clicking the icon and selecting "Examine Timers". The full version has the "Always on Top" function enabled which allows the icon to float on top of any current application together with "Display Timers" which displays the time to your next Micropause, Short Pause and Long Pause. With the full version you also get the manual of Neuromuscular Exercises and the program is password protected. Why do Exercises at the Workstation? ----------------------------------- The full version of the Activity Monitoring Program is supplied with a booklet of Neuromuscular Exercises. These have been designed by a Chartered Physiotherapist to prevent injury caused by long-term keyboard work. For further information see "Help on AMP" from the AMP icon menu. How do I order the full version? ------------------------------- Enquiries and orders for the Activity Monitoring Program should be sent to HealthWare Limited 7 Clarks Terrace Heworth York YO3 0DQ Tel 0904 430269 Fax 0904 423622 CUSTOMISATION ------------- We offer a range of customisation levels for the program from including your health and safety information in the help files to reprinting all manuals in your company colours. Telephone HealthWare today on (0904) 430269 for details. The HealthWare Range ==================== HealthWare Limited produces a range of products and services to help you look after the health of your computer users. We are currently offering the following items: SOFTWARE Activity Monitoring Program Computer Based Training - User Environment Module - Manual Handling of Loads Computer Based Assessment - User Environment Module - Manual Handling of Loads Workstation Auditor Vision Screener HARDWARE Neuromuscular Exercise Manual HealthWare MouseMat HealthWare WristRest HealthWare Ergonomic Keyboard CONSULTANCY Computer HealthCheck Health and Safety Physiotherapy & Ergonomics Call HealthWare today on (0904) 430269 for latest pricing and our brochure.